Ovarian Cancer and Menopause

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Menopause itself is not linked to a higher risk of developing cancer. But the rates of many cancers, including ovarian cancer, do rise with age. What's more, some of the drugs used to manage menopausal symptoms may raise or lower a person's cancer risk.

What Is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in a woman's ovaries. It's the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths among women. It most often occurs in women who are older than 50. Over half of those diagnosed with ovarian cancer are 60 or older, according to the American Cancer Society.

When found in its earliest stages, over 90% of women treated for ovarian cancer will live longer than 5 years. Early ovarian cancer is hard to detect, though. Many cases are found after the cancer has spread to other organs. In these cases, the cancer is much harder to treat and cure.

What Causes Ovarian Cancer?

The cause is unknown, but you have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer if you:

Have a family history of it

Have never been pregnant

Are over the age of 50

Studies show that women who've had children, who breastfeed, or who use birth control pills are less likely to develop this cancer. These factors decrease the number of times a woman ovulates, and studies suggest reducing that number during a woman's lifetime may lower the risk of ovarian cancer.

Menopause itself does not cause ovarian cancer, but studies have linked long-term estrogen replacement therapy (more than 10 years) to an increased risk of this cancer. Women should discuss the risks and benefits of this type of hormone therapy with their doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

In its early stages, ovarian cancer has few symptoms.

The first sign of it is usually an enlarged ovary. The ovaries are located deep within the pelvic cavity, so swelling may go unnoticed until it becomes more advanced.